July 4, 11, 18, 25 |  Wacky Wednesdays at Absecon Lighthouse

11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Fee: included with regular admission

Absecon Lighthouse Historic Site

(609) 449-1360

www.abseconlighthouse.org

A free program for children twelve and under offered on select Wednesdays in the months of July & August. Each program includes arts and crafts, as well as matching movies and coloring pages.Themes change weekly and include The Salty Sea, Pirates & Mermaids, Fairy Tales, Gifts of The Garden, Superheroes & Villains, Dinosaurs, and Outer Space.

July 6  |  Family Nature Program: Come Fly a Kite!

11 a.m. to Noon
Fee: Park entrance fee 
High Point State Park
(973) 875-1471
Join us every Friday morning this summer for a family-friendly nature activity suitable for all ages. High Point is one of the windiest places in New Jersey! Come hear a story about the wind and make a simple kite that really flies. Bring a lunch and spend the day – have a picnic, play at the playgrounds, take a swim at the beach, or go for a walk!  Meet at the Interpretive Center.

July 7, 8, 15, 17, 21, 22, 28, 29  |  A Child's Life at Ringwood Manor Tour

A Child's Life at Ringwood Manor Tour
1 p.m. 
Fee: for tour: $3 for adults, $1 for children ages 6-12, children 5 and under free; plus park entrance fee
Ringwood Manor, Ringwood State Park
(973) 962-2240
This fun & energetic 45-minute tour of Ringwood Manor focuses on the children of the Hewitt family, the activities, games, & pranks they played at the Manor, and what a child’s life would be like during the late 19th century. Scavenger hunts are provided on the tour and afterwards, kids are encouraged to try our reproduction 19th century toys! A great tour to introduce younger visitors to the history of the site!

July 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29  |  Nature/Holiday Crafts

12:30 to 3:30 p.m.
FREE; donations welcome
Belleplain State Forest
(609) 861-2404
ADA accessible. Meet in the picnic area at Lake Nummy.

July 7, 14, 21, 28  |  Storytime

12:30 p.m.
FREE
Cape May Point State Park
(609) 884-2159
Sponsor: Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities
ADA accessible

July 13  | Family Nature Program: Insect Safari

July 20  | Family Nature Program: Art in Nature

July 27  | Family Nature Program: Mountaintop Scavenger Hunt

11 a.m. to Noon
Fee: Park entrance fee 
High Point State Park
(973) 875-1471
Join us every Friday morning this summer for a family-friendly nature activity suitable for all ages. This week, we’ll cover the basics about bugs, and then will use large nets to see what critters we can find.  Bring a lunch and spend the day – have a picnic, play at the playgrounds, take a swim at the beach, or go for a walk!  Meet at the Interpretive Center.

July 14  | Kid's Blueberry Painting Party

4 to 10 p.m.
Fee: $5 per child 
Whitesbog Village
(609) 893-4646
whitesbogevents@gmail.com
Join Miss Theresa for a fun kid paint party in the General Store Classroom! Paint blueberries on canvas keepsake to take home! Space is limited so registration is requested. 

July 15  | Family Woodland Hike

1 p.m.  
Fee: Park entrance fee
Ringwood State Park, New Jersey State Botanical Garden, Carriage House
(973) 962-9534
Sponsor: NJBG Skylands Association
Join NJBG hike leaders on an easy, child-friendly hike in the Garden’s woodlands. Learn a bit about the plants, animals and geology around you on a hike designed to fit the group. We suggest wearing sturdy shoes, dressing for the weather conditions, and bringing bug spray and sun block, if needed. Meet at the Carriage House. Rain cancels.

July 20  |  Kid's Day - Bugs, Butterflies and Critters

10 a.m. to noon
Fee: Park entrance fee
Round Valley Recreation Area, South Parking Lot (first right after the toll booth)
(908) 236-6355
It's time to see the six-legged creatures who outumber us on this planet. This hike is open to all ages but kids seem to find the coolest bugs. We'll play some games too.

July 4 | Historic Building

11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Fee: park entrance fee
Allaire State Park, Historic Allaire Village
Sponsor: Allaire Village Inc.
(732) 919-3500

July 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29 | Historic Carriage Barn Exhibit Open

Historic Carriage Barn Exhibit Open
11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 
Fee: Park entrance fee
Ringwood Manor, Ringwood State Park
(973) 962-2240
ADA accessible. Enjoy our newly opened carriage barn exhibit at Ringwood Manor! Visitors can walk through a restored portion of the historic building and view three original carriages along with equestrian equipment of the Hewitt family. Interpretive panels allow for a self-guided tour. Staff is on hand to answer questions. 

July 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 25, 26, 27, 28 | Guided Tours of Ringwood Manor

10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (last tour begins at 3pm)
FEE: $3 for adults, $1 for children ages 6-12, children 5 and under free plus park entrance fee
Ringwood Manor, Ringwood State Park
(973) 962-2240
Only first floor is ADA accessible. Enjoy a guided tour of the summer estate of the Cooper & Hewitt families, wealthy iron industrialists of the Gilded Age. Thirty of the 51 rooms, furnished in the original items of the family, are shown on the tour.

July 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 19, 20, 21, 22, 26, 27, 28, 29  | Historic Batsto Mansion Tours

11 a.m, 1 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m. (Please call for day's schedule)
Fee: $3 adults, $1 children ages 6 to 11; children under 6 free
Wharton State Forest, Batsto Village
(609) 561-0024
Purchase tickets at the Batsto Visitor Center. 

July 1, 7, 8,  14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29 | Long Pond Ironworks Museum and Visitor Center

1 to 4 p.m.
FREE; donations welcome
Long Pond Ironworks State Park
(973) 657-1688
Sponsor: Friends of Long Pond Ironworks State Park
ADA accessible

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All month in July

Belleplain State Forest
Lake Nummy Study
Saturdays and Sundays, 10 am
FREE 
(609) 861-2404 
Sponsor: Belleplain State Forest 
Using “dip” nets, discover for yourself what lives in Lake Nummy. 
Meet at the Nature/Interpretive Center.

Cape May Point State Park
Keeper on Duty
Saturdays, 1:15pm 
FREE
(609) 884-2159 
Sponsor: Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities 
ADA Accessible

Kayak Eco Tours on Cheesequake Creek
Time to be determined, call park for additional details and dataes
Fee: $20 per person
Cheesequake State Park
(732) 566-3208
Explore the salt marsh on a Naturalist guided kayak tour on Cheesequake Creek. The program includes all equipment and lesson. Must be in good physical condition 

Walt Whitman "Specimen Days"
Call for times and dates
FREE
Walt Whitman State Historic Site
(856) 964-5383
Better known for his ground breaking free-verse poetry, Walt Whitman was also an accomplished prose writer having in his early years published several short stories, editorials and a novel.  Later, while living in Camden, he published in 1882 a book of life essays entitled, “Specimen Days and Collect”.  This program will explore this notable work with a discussion of the author’s revealing impressions of the people, places and events of the 19th century – an extraordinary period in American history. 

July 1 | Independence Day Celebration

11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Fee: park entrance fee
Allaire State Park, Historic Allaire Village
Sponsor: Allaire Village Inc.
(732) 919-3500
Join us in the 1836 Militia Muster and General Fanfare.

July 1 | Walking tour of the Battlefield

1:30 p.m.
FREE
Monmouth Battlefield State Park
Meet at Visitor Center
(732) 462-9616
Sponsor:  The Friends of Monmouth Battlefield State Park
Wear appropriate foot wear

July 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31  | Diesel Train Operates for the Public

Noon to 4 p.m.
Fee: park entrance fee, train ticket $4 per person, more for special events, children 2 and younger ride free
Allaire State Park, Pine Creek Railroad
Sponsor: NJ Museum of Transportation
(732) 938-5524
Train leaves every half hour, weather permitting.    

July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 | Grounds & Gardens Tour of Ringwood Manor

2 to 4 p.m.
Fee: Park entrance fee
Ringwood Manor, Ringwood State Park
(973) 962-2240
These 2 hour walking tours will take participants around the main property at Ringwood Manor, discussing the historic objects, the planned gardens and landscape features, the out-buildings, and even the cemetery. Historic photos will be shown to the group to give participants an idea of what the site looked like at various times. It is advised that participants wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes, dress appropriately for the weather, and bring bug spray & sun block if necessary. Steady Rain cancels.

July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 | Garden Tours 

2 p.m.
Fee: Park entrance fee
Ringwood State Park, New Jersey State Botanical Garden
Sponsor: NJBG Skylands Association
(973) 962-9534 
Steady rain cancels.  Wear sturdy shoes. Knowledgeable NJBG docents take you on a tour of what’s blooming around the Botanical Garden. These free tours will be available every Sunday afternoon at 2pm until the end of October. Meet at the Carriage House. We suggest wearing sturdy shoes, dressing for the weather conditions, and bringing bug spray and sun block, if needed. Meet at the Carriage House.

July 2 | 1st Saturday Walks. Walking in Nature – A Prescription for Better Health 

10 a.m. to Noon
FREE
Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park
Route 295 Scenic Overlook, Bordentown, NJ
RWJ Hamilton, Friends of the Marsh and D&R Canal State Park
(609) 924-5705
www.abbottmarshlands.org
Walking is greatly beneficial for the body and mind. Taking exercise out into nature augments these benefits, so that getting to better health may be just a walk in the park! Come discover the Abbott Marshlands with a knowledgeable guide.  Each 1st Saturday Walk will explore a different part of this rich and diverse natural area.  Guides will vary; locations also will vary so that all marshland trails will be explored during the year.  The meeting place will be listed with the trip date; walks are from 10 am to noon.  In case of inclement weather, check the marsh website calendar (www.abbottmarshlands.org); any cancellations will be listed before 9 am.  A light drizzle will not cancel

July 7 | Double Trouble Village Walking Tour

10 to 11 a.m.
Fee: Adult and children ages 12 and up $5, children ages 6 to 11 $2, children under 7 free
Double Trouble Village State Historic
Site
(732) 341-4098
For over a century Double Trouble Village was a thriving company town centered on a growing cranberry industry.  During this one-hour walking tour around the abandoned village and inactive cranberry bogs, you’ll hear the birth and evolution of Double Trouble Village’s cranberry industry from hand-picked dry to mechanized wet cranberry harvests and the challenges faced today.  Maximum 16 participants. Pre-registration and fee required by 3 p.m.Friday July 6 through the Brendan Byrne State Forest Office, (609) 726-1191. Payment cannot be accepted at Double Trouble.

July 4 | Celebration

Please check our facebook page for specific dated and times as the Holiday falls midweek
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
FREE
Belleplain State Forest
(609) 861-2404
Meeting the Picnic Area at Lake Nummy, Age Groups 0-5, 6-10, 11-17, 18 & up Lots of prizes and raffle, cake and juice

July 4 | Reading of the Declaration of Independence

9:30 a.m.
Indian King Tavern Museum
Sponsor: Friends of the Indian King Tavern Museum
(856) 429-6792
The Declaration of Independence is read from the steps of the Indian King Tavern Museum.

July 4 | Joint Program

“The Monmouth Campaign” by David Martin.  “The Army Celebrates the 4th of July,” by George Dawson
2 p.m.
FREE
Monmouth Battlefield State Park
(732) 462-9616
Sponsor:  The Friends of Monmouth Battlefield Park
ADA accessible. Held at Boyd Park in New Brunswick

July 4 | 19th Annual Independence Day Celebration & Declaration of Independence Reading at Ringwood Manor

11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Reading of Declaration of Independence takes place at 2:30 .p.m
Fee: Park entrance fee
Ringwood State Park, Ringwood Manor 
(973) 962-2240 
Sponsor: North Jersey Highlands Historical Society 
The annual 4th of July event will feature a traditional dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence from the Manor’s front porch and other period reenactments such as games, sutlers, militias, reenactors, crafts and more to celebrate the 242nd anniversary of American independence. Ringwood Manor will be open for self-guided tours from 10am to 1:30pm (entrance fee applies). Visit our website for all the details of the day’s events: www.ringwoodmanor.org

July 4 | Early American Ice Cream and Patriotic Sing-Along

1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
FREE
Washington Crossing State Park, Johnson Ferry House
(609) 737-2515
A great family event.

July 4 | Reading of the Declaration of Independence

2 p.m. 
Fee: park entrance fee 
Washington Crossing State Park, Visitor Center Museum 
(609) 737-0623 
ADA accessible. Listen to a reading of the Declaration of Independence followed by a Musket Firing demonstration.

July 6 | Concert: Rickard Reiter Swing Band

6:30 p.m.
Fee: $5 donation requested
Ringwood State Park, New Jersey State Botanical Garden, Carriage House
Sponsor: NJBG Skylands Association
(973) 962-9534 
One of New Jersey's most popular swing combos kicks off summer with familiar standards from the swing era and the best of classic rock. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Concert moves to the Carriage House in bad weather.

July 7 | The Batona Trail- Premier Walking Path in the Pine Barrens by Diana Mason

8 to 9 p.m. 
FREE; donations welcome
Bass River State Forest, Lake Absegami Beach Breezeway
(609) 296-1114
Sponsor: Outdoor Club of South Jersey 
Illustrated program on the 52.7-mile-long hiking trail through the Pine Barrens. Bring flashlight and something to sit on, ADA accessible, severe weather cancels.

July 7 | Dragonfly Talk

10 to 10:30 a.m.
FREE
High Point State Park
(973) 875-1471
Did you know that Sussex County is home to more than 200 species of dragon and damselfies? Join us at the Sawmill Dam/Boat Launch to learn a bit about these fascinating aerialists and about insect anatomy and life cycles in general. Suitable for all ages.

July 7 | Sawmill Lake Nature Walk

10:30 a.m. to Noon
FREE
High Point State Park
(973) 875-1471
Join park naturalists on a fun and informal 1.5 mile walk around Sawmill Lake to learn about the plants and animals that call the lake home. Meet at the Sawmill Boat Launch. Suitable for adults and kids ages five and up. (Younger children are welcome if they're good walkers or can be carried.)

July 7 | Walk-About Branchville

11 am to 1:30 pm
Fee: $10 (lunch additional); pre-registration required
Kittatinny Valley State Park Visitor Center
(973) 786-6445
For adults. Join us for a one-of-a-kind journey through Branchville’s storied past on this 2-mile walk about town, followed by lunch at the Branchville Grill.

July 7 | Lusscroft Farm Northwest Jersey Horse Show Special Event

Fee: Various
Lusscroft Farm
(973) 875-1471 (High Point Park Office)
Sponsor: Heritage and Agriculture Association
www.lusscroftfarm.org

July 7 | Musket Firing Demonstration 

2 p.m. 
Fee: $1 per person & park entrance fee 
Washington Crossing State Park, Visitor Center Museum 
(609) 737-0623 
ADA accessible. Join a Park Historian for an interpretive program on the weapons of the American Revolution and their use during the Battle of Trenton followed by a Musket Firing.

July 7 | Night Hike

8:30 p.m.
Fee: $2.00 per person. Exact change please. Advanced registration required 
Washington Crossing State Park, Nature Center
(609) 737-0609
(9 yrs. – adult) Explore the park in the dark on this guided nocturnal walk and campfire. Bring a flashlight. Advanced registration required. Note: Main park entrance will be closed.  Call for alternate access directions and registration.

July 8 | Blooming Bog Walk

2 to 4 p.m.
Fee: park entrance fee
High Point State Park
(973) 875-4800 
Explore High Point’s unique cedar bog on an easy two-mile hike with the park naturalist. While there are no guarantees, it's about time for the great rhododendrons to bloom, and the calla lilies, and iris may still be flowering too. You may want to wear insect repellent and bring drinking water. Meet at the Cedar Swamp trail head located at the dead end in the Cedar Swamp picnic area. Suitable for adults and kids age 8 and up.

July 8 | Program on the 14th New Jersey at the Battle of Monocacy

2 p.m.
FREE
Monmouth Battlefield State Park, Visitor Center Auditorium
(732) 462-9616
Sponsor:  The Friends of Monmouth Battlefield State Park
ADA accessible

July 8 | Audubon Butterfly Walk

1 p.m. 
Fee: Park entrance fee
Ringwood State Park, New Jersey State Botanical Garden, Carriage House
Sponsor: NJBG Skylands Association
(973) 962-9534
Sponsor: Bergen County Audubon Society 
Join us as we walk the garden and fields to look for and identify the butterflies and plants of the NJBG.  We’ll identify the butterflies and discuss the host plants and nectar sources critical for their survival. We suggest wearing sturdy shoes, dressing for the weather conditions, and bringing bug spray and sun block, if needed. Meet at the Carriage House. Rain cancels. 
Rain cancels. 

July 8 | Blueberry Jam!

11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Whitesbog Village
(609) 893-4646
www.whitesbog.org
Musicians of all ages are welcome to bring out their instruments and hop into the fun of an old-fashioned music jam! Meet us on the porch of the General Store, bring a chair, listen a while, sip on a drink from the store and enjoy the beauty of Whitesbog.

July 8 | Summer Bird Count

8:30 a.m.
FREE
Whitesbog Village
(609) 893-4646
www.whitesbog.org
Join in the count! Come to the village with an experienced leader and count all the many types of birds that call Whitesbog home. Meet in front of the General Store at 8:30am, no reservation required.

July 8 | Blueberry Tasting

Call for time
Fee: $10 per person
Whitesbog Village
(609) 893-4646
www.whitesbog.org
Taste and learn about the many of the varieties of highbush blueberries, their similarities and differences will be explored in size, color, taste and more in the General Store Classroom. After you can explore the heritage plants in the Blueberry Triangle Field and Elizabeth White's demonstration blueberry garden and sample some of the varieties first brought to Elizabeth by the Pineys and named after them. Reservations are recommended 

July 12 | Yoga on the Mountain

Yoga on the Mountain
6:30 to 7:45 p.m.
Fee: $5 donation recommended
High Point State Park
(973) 875-1471
Sponsor: Friends of High Point State Park
(973) 702-0488 to register 
www.friendsofhighpointstatepark.org
Come enjoy the view while relaxing your mind and body. All levels of experience are welcome. Please bring your own yoga mat and water. Walk-ins are welcome. However, registration is suggested so that we may contact you in the event a class is canceled.

July 13 | An Illustrated History of the Delaware

7 to 8 p.m.
FREE
Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park
Prallsville Mills (33 Risler Street, Stockton 08559) 
Delaware River Mill Society
(609) 397-3586
info@prallsvillemills.org 
The history of the settlement of the Delaware Valley starts not at the beginning of the river, but at its end. It was the original Route 1 - a highway that brought modern civilization to a pristine wilderness. We’ll talk about the earliest explorers and how they interacted with the native population, and make our way upriver from the Delaware Bay and it’s legendary oyster industry, to the ornate Victorian era lighthouses, historic military sites, the industrial giant that was Camden, the first steamboat in the country, the commercial hubs of Burlington and Bordentown with their illustrious residents, the extraordinary triumph of Washington at “Trent Town,” the growth of the canals during the industrial revolution, and many more fascinating places and events as we make our way northward, finally ending our journey in the Catskill Mountains of New York State. Join artist and author, Hal Taylor, to learn more about this great American river

July 13 | Friday the 13th: Hiking, History, Horrors

10 am to 2 pm
Fee: $10 (lunch additional); pre-registration required
Meet at East Crisman Rd./Paulinskill Valley Trail parking area
(973) 786-6445
For adults.Scare up some fun as we follow the trail of “Jason Voorhees” into Blairstown for this classic horror film celebration. The 3-mile round-trip walk includes a visit to the museum and famous Blairstown Diner, an historic tour of the town, and time for lunch.

July 14 | Summer Flea Market

8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
FEE: park entrance fee
Vendor spaces: $30 pre-registration, $35 registration week of event
Allaire State Park, Historic Allaire Village
Sponsor: Allaire Village Inc.
(732) 919-3500
Hunt for hidden treasures amid furniture, books, art work, bottles, knick knacks & so much more! Partially ADA accessible. Rain date July 15.

July 14 | Concert Under the Stars: Acoustic Musicians Guild

8 to 9:30 p.m.
FREE; donations welcome
Bass River State Forest, Lake Absegami Beach Breezeway
(609) 296-1114
Bring flashlight and something to sit on, ADA accessible, severe weather cancels.

July 14 | Concert on the Beach

Mike Lawlor and Friends
6 to 8 p.m.
Fee: Donations appreciated
High Point State Park
(973) 875-1471 
Sponsor: Friends of High Point State Park 
www.friendsofhighpointstatepark.org 
The Friends of High Point State Park invite you to join them for an evening of music in the park. Bring your family and friends up the mountain for a day of fun, and then stay for a fabulous concert on the beach. Spread a blanket out on the grass and enjoy a picnic supper. Dance barefooted in the sand. Summer nights were made for music under the setting sun! All concerts take place by the beach at Lake Marcia. In the event of rain, they will take place in the Interpretive Center. Free, but donations of $5 or more per adult appreciated. Proceeds support Concerts on the Beach and other Friends of High Point State Park programs.

July 14 | Stream Stomp

10 to 10:30 a.m.
FREE
High Point State Park
973-875-1471
Come borrow a net, turn over some rocks, and discover the creatures that live in the stream that flows out of Sawmill Lake. Wear boots or shoes that can get wet, and be aware that it can be a bit slippery. Meet by the bridge below the Sawmill Lake dam.

July 14 | Sawmill Lake Nature Walk

10:30 a.m. to Noon
FREE
High Point State Park
(973) 875-1471
Join park naturalists on a fun and informal 1.5 mile walk around Sawmill Lake to learn about the plants and animals that call the lake home. Meet at the Sawmill Boat Launch. Suitable for adults and kids ages five and up. (Younger children are welcome if they're good walkers or can be carried.)

July 14 | Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing) Walk

9 to 11 a.m.
Fee: $10; pre-registration required
Kittatinny Valley State Park Visitor Center
(973) 786-6445
For adults
Experience the health benefits of “forest bathing” right here in the tranquil woods of KVSP. This slow-paced, 1-mile guided walk will cultivate sensory awareness, reduce stress, and facilitate a deeper connection with nature.

July 14 | Public Walking Tours

Noon & 2 p.m.
Fee: Adults $3, children $1
Long Pond Ironworks State Park
(973) 657-1688
Sponsor: Friends of Long Pond Ironworks State Park
ADA accesible upon request. Please call for more information 

July 14 | Raspberry Ramble

10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Fee: Park entrance fee
Round Valley Recreation Area, South Parking Lot (first right after the toll booth area)
(908) 236-6355
Pick your own organic berries! Wear long pants and bring a sturdy pail or container (baggies won't do). Call in advance to check on ripeness.

July 14 | Nature Walk

10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
FREE, pre-registration required. Spaces are limited
Voorhees State Park
Meet at Hoppock Grove
(908) 638-8572
sprucerun@dep.nj.gov
Families. We will explore the forest in Voorhees State Park, when we take a hike on the trails. Dress to be outdoors.

July 14 | Musket Firing Demonstration

2 p.m. 
Fee:  $1 per person & ark entrance fee on weekends and Holidays from May 26 to September 3 
Washington Crossing State Park, Visitor Center Museum 
(609) 737-0623 
ADA accessible. Join a Park Historian for an interpretive program on the weapons of the American Revolution and their use during the Battle of Trenton followed by a Musket Firing.

July 14 | Astronomy Presentation and Star Watch

8 to 10:30 p.m.
FREE
Wharton State Forest, Batsto Historic Village
Sponsor: The West Jersey Astronomical Society
(609) 567-4559

July 14 | Village Tour

1 p.m.
Fee: $5 donation/person; advance reservations requested
Whitesbog Village
(609) 893-4646
www.whitesbog.org
Stroll the Historic Village, learn about Whitesbog’s role in history and visit Suningive, the worker’s cottage and other museums & buildings that speak to Whitesbog’s heritage.

July 15 | Monument Trail Hike

1:30 to 4 p.m.
Fee: Park entrance fee
High Point State Park
(973) 875-1471 
Join the park naturalist for a guided hike on one of High Point's most popular trails. Learn about the nature and history of High Point State Park as we hike along this 3.5 mile loop trail, taking in some of the best views in the Park. This hike is moderately strenuous with one particularly long uphill stretch. You'll want to bring water and wear sturdy shoes. Suitable for adults and children age ten and up.  Meet at the Interpretive Center. (Park in the lot marked “Monument Trail Parking.” From there it's a short walk to the Interpretive Center and the trailhead.)

July 15 | Driving Tour

The battle of Monmouth Monument on Court Street in Freehold
2 p.m.
FREE
Monmouth Battlefield State Park, Meet at Visitor Center
(732) 462-9616
Sponsor:  The Friends of Monmouth Battlefield State Park
You must use own vehicle.

July 15 | Pond Study

1:30 to 3 p.m.
FREE, advanced registration required
Washington Crossing State Park
Meet at the park pond on Brickyard Rd (call for directions)
(609) 737-0609
(all ages) Sample the pond with nets for a variety of aquatic organisms

July 19 | Thursday Trekker Hike: Life and Fuller Trails

10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
FREE
High Point State Park
(973)-875-1471
Sponsor: Friends of High Point State Park
www.friendsofhighpointstatepark.org 
Join April Oleksy a volunteer from the Friends of High Point State Park for a hike on the Life and Fuller t rails. This is an easy to moderate loop with variable trail surfaces. The Life trail was once part of the Fuller family farm which was located here in the 1800's and early 1900's. It was later incorporated into a Girl Scout camp and was part of the first camp in the state for blind children. The Fuller trail was once used by the Fuller family to travel from their farm to the cedar shake mill that they operated where Sawmill Lake is today.  Each trail on the hike is about a mile long one way. We will enjoy the woods and decide if we would like to add additional trails as we go. Please bring water and feel free to bring a picnic lunch and join April after the hike. Hike may be canceled in the event of inclement weather. Meet at the Winter Trails Parking Area off Park Ridge Road.

July 19 | Early Bird Breakfast Walk

8:30 am to 11 am
Fee: None; breakfast additional (cash only); pre-registration required
Kittatinny Valley State Park, Warbasse Junction Rd. parking area
(973) 786-6445
For adults. Celebrate summer with a 2.5-mile round-trip walk along the historic Sussex Branch Trail. A one-hour breakfast at the Millside Café in Lafayette will energize us for the return trip.

July 21 | Ducky Derby

11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
FEE: park entrance fee
Allaire State Park
Historic Allaire Village Mill Pond
Sponsor: Allaire Village Inc.
(732) 919-3500
Enter your rubber ducks in the race of the year! Children’s ducks race all day to find the fastest duck. Winners of each race get a prize & the fastest duck of all wins grand prize! Kids get to fish for ducks in our mill pond for prizes. Corporate & adult ducks race as well for the Prize Package for each race. See www.allairevillage.org for more info. Rain date - July 28

July 21 | Concert Under the Stars: BadDogz

8 to 9:30 p.m.
FREE; donations to the band are welcome
Bass River State Forest, Lake Absegami Beach Breezeway
(6090 296-1114
Bluegrass, Gospel and Old-Timey Music. Bring flashlight and something to sit on, ADA accessible, severe weather cancels.

July 21 | Hike Along the D&R Canal from Fireman's Eddy to Washington Crossing

10 a.m.
FREE, pre-registration required
Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park
Washington Crossing State Park – Washington Grove Day Use Area / River Parking Lot
Delaware and Raritan Canal Watch
(609) 635-2783 – Pamela V’Combe
pjvcombe@gmail.com
Hike 5.3 miles along the D&R Canal from Fireman’s Eddy to Washington Crossing State Park or choose the 4.1-mile walk to Church Road in Titusville and learn about the canal along the way. Wear sturdy shoes, dress appropriately and bring water.

July 21, 22 | Victorian Era Encampment - The Boer War

10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
FREE
Fort Mott State Park
(856) 935-3218

July 21 | Food Truck Festival

11 a.m. to 6 p.m.                                     
Fee: Admission - $5   Children under 5 are free. No pets please.
The Hermitage Museum
Sponsor: Friends of the Hermitage
(201) 445-8311 x 102 
Come join us for great food and drink, terrific music, and a spectacular day at The Hermitage. There will be a large variety of delicious foods to choose from. Explore different cuisines or just keep it simple. It’s your choice! Craft beers, live bands and fun activities for the kids will also be part of the day’s offerings.  Seating will be provided on our beautiful property, or you can bring a blanket and picnic the day away!

July 21 | Sawmill Lake Nature Walk

10:30 a.m. to Noon
FREE
High Point State Park
(973) 875-1471
Join park naturalists on a fun and informal 1.5 mile walk around Sawmill Lake to learn about the plants and animals that call the lake home. Meet at the Sawmill Boat Launch. Suitable for adults and kids ages five and up. (Younger children are welcome if they're good walkers or can be carried.)

July 21 | Dusk to Dark Bog Walk

8 to 9:30 p.m.
FREE
High Point State Park
(973) 875-1471
Come take an easy 2-mile naturalist-guided walk and see the Dryden Kuser Natural Area in a different light. We'll start out about a half hour before sunset and will return in the dark. Along the way we'll keep our ears and eyes open for nocturnal activity and can enjoy the blooming rhododendrons before it is too dark to see them.  We will not be using flashlights - you may be surprised by how much you're able to see when your eyes adjust gradually. Suitable for adults and children ages eight and up. You may want to wear insect repellent - the mosquitoes tend to be more aggressive around dusk. Meet at the Cedar Swamp trailhead (the yellow gate at the end of the road in the cedar swamp picnic area).

July 21 | Bikes-n-Brews @ Angry Erik Brewing

4 to 8 p.m.
Fee: $5 (beverages additional); pre-registration required
Kittatinny Valley State Park, Warbasse Junction Rd. parking area
(973) 786-6445
For ages 21 & over. “Do the Loop!” Join us for a 15-mile round-trip bike-ride along the scenic Sussex Branch Trail, Great Valley Rail-Trail, and Paulinskill Valley Trail to enjoy happy hour snacks and beverages (optional) at our final destination.

July 21 | Christmas in July

Noon to 6 p.m.
Fee: Beach entry fee as well as the cost of the rides 
Parvin State Park
Sponsor: Parvin State Park Appreciation Committee, Inc.
(856) 981-6100
Anual event with water slides, bouce rides, car shows, health fair and various other vendors.

July 21 | Historian's Hand-Pick Tour: Nope, It's Not 

1:30 p.m.
Fee:  $10 per person; Advanced registration required by emailing: RingwoodManorTours@gmail.com 
Ringwood Manor, Ringwood State Park
(973) 962-2240
Join Ringwood Manor historian, Sue Shutte, throughout the year as she hand-picks exclusive tours with a special focus. Have you been coming to Ringwood Manor for years? Think you know everything there is to know about the place? Were you told a story about the site that did sound correct? Like a fact-checking website, truths will be uncovered, myths will be dispelled, and you will find out how new research and information is shedding new light on what you may have heard before. Advanced registration required. Tour limited to 20 people.

July 21 | Musket Firing Demonstration

2 p.m. 
Fee: $1 per person & park entrance fee on weekends and Holidays from May 26 to September 3 
Washington Crossing State Park, Visitor Center Museum 
(609) 737-0623 
ADA accessible. Join a Park Historian for an interpretive program on the weapons of the American Revolution and their use during the Battle of Trenton followed by a Musket Firing

July 21 | Songs and Stories of the American Revolution

2 p.m. 
FREE
Washington Crossing State Park, Visitor Center Museum 
(609) 737-0623 
ADA accessible. Using rousing period songs and stories Matthew Dodd will take you back to the days of the American Revolution

July 21 | The Carpenter Frog Pinelands Hike

10:30 a.m.
FREE
Wharton State Forest, Atsion Office
(609) 567-4559
Guided hike, bring water and lunch 

July 22 | Crab Time Racing

1 p.m.
Fee: park entrance fee – all ages
Cheesequake State Park, Bathhouse Pavilion 
(732) 566-3208
Learn about the Fiddler Crabs that inhabit the park. Participate in Fiddler Crab races.

July 22 | Blueberry Living History Event

10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Fee: $8 ages 12 and up; $5 ages 4 to 11; children undere 3 are free
Whitesbog Village
(609) 893-4646
Visit all the village’s interpreted museums and historic landscapes, pick vintage blueberries, take a wagon ride and more at the summertime Living History Event! The Village will come alive with workers and residents from the 1920’s. Join them in their daily activities. Visit Suningive, the home of the “Blueberry Queen”. Interact with those who helped make the blueberry one of America’s favorite fruit. We would LOVE to see you become a part of our Living History. Tickets will be available in advance on Eventbrite and there is a discount for families when buying in advance on Eventbrite only. The Accidental Jug Band will be playing on the porch and the General Store will be open from 10 – 4

July 27 | By the Light of the Moon Climb

11 a.m to 8:30 p.m.
Fee: $7 adults, $5 seniors, $4 children
Absecon Lighthouse Historic Site
(609) 449-1360
www.abseconlighthouse.org
The best views of Atlantic City are during a full moon climb. Atlantic City has a stunning skyline at night, and to top it off, you can watch the full moon float up from the ocean and join the magnificent lights of the city.

July 27 | Shorebird Stroll

1 to 3 p.m.
FREE; donations welcome
North Brigantine Natural Area, meet at wooden "welcome" sign on beach
Bass River State Forest
(609) 296-1114
Led by Christina "Kashi" Davis, Wildlife Biologist, NJDEP Endnagered & Nongame Species Program
Be prepared for walking on soft sand approx. 4 miles; bring sunscreen, water and insect repellent.

July 27 | Sunset/Moonrise Hike

7 to 9:30 p.m.
Fee: $3 per person or $5 per family
High Point State Park
(973) 875-1471
highpointprograms@dep.nj.gov 
Adults/Children age 10 and up.Come hike a 1-mile stretch of the Appalachian Trail to an observation platform where we’ll watch the sun set in the west and the full moon rise in the eastern sky. This hike is moderately strenuous with some steep portions and a rocky, uneven trail surface. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must. We’ll return to our cars by moonlight via an easier route. Registration is required by 5:00 PM the day of the hike.

July 27 | Full Moon Night Hike

8 to 9:30 p.m.
Fee: $5; pre-registration required
Kittatinny Valley State Park Visitor Center
(973) 786-6445
For teens & adults.Let's celebrate the full moon of July with a unique after-dark 2.5-mile hike in the park, followed by moon pies in the visitor center. Headlamps and/or flashlights are required!

July 28 | Lighthouse Night Climb & Concert

7 to 9 p.m.
FREE; donations welcome
Barnegat Lighthouse State Park
Sponsor: Friends of Barnegat Lighthouse State Park 
www.friendsofbarnegatlighthouse.org

July 27 | Moth Night

by Tony McBride, NJ Division of Fish & Wildlife
8 to 10 p.m.
FREE; donations are welcome
Bass River State Forest, Lake Absegami Beach Breezeway
(609) 296-1114
Watch power point presentation on moths of NJ then view and catch them using sheets, lights and bait. Bring flashlight and something to sit on, ADA accessible, severe weather cancels.

July 28 | Trail Hike

1 p.m.
FREE, ages 6 and up
Cheesequake State Park
(732) 566-3208
Note: Take part in a Saturday guided hike starting at the Nature Center. We’ll explore the trails as we learn some interesting facts about the Park

July 28 | Civilian Conservation Corps Talk

10 to 10:30 a.m.
FREE
High Point State Park
(973) 875-1471
Join us near the bridge below the Sawmill Lake Dam and learn more about the organization that built Sawmill Lake, the campsites, the roads, and much more! We'll bring some of the historic photos from the park archives so you'll be able to see the project unfold. Suitable for all ages.

July 28 | Sawmill Lake Nature Walk

10:30 a.m. to Noon
FREE
High Point State Park
(973) 875-1471
Join park naturalists on a fun and informal 1.5 mile walk around Sawmill Lake to learn about the plants and animals that call the lake home. Meet at the Sawmill Boat Launch. Suitable for adults and kids ages five and up. (Younger children are welcome if they're good walkers or can be carried.)

July 28 | Discovery Hike

11 a.m. to noon
Fee: $5 Adults and children 12 & up, $3 ages 6-11, children under 6 free; pre-registration required
Kittatinny Valley State Park Visitor Center
(973) 786-6445
All ages welcome. Join us for a 2-mile naturalist-guided hike to explore the trails and observe the plants and animals of Kittatinny Valley State Park.

July 28 | Astronomy Presentation and Telescope Viewing

8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
FREE
NJAA Observatory, Voorhees State Park
Sponsor: New Jersey Astronomical Association
(908) 638-8500
www.njaa.org 
Dr. Joshua Winn (Princeton University astrophysicist) will share his exoplanet research.

July 28 | Musket Firing Demonstration

2 p.m. 
FEE:  $1 per person & park entrance fee 
Washington Crossing State Park, Visitor Center Museum 
(609) 737-0623 
Note: ADA accessible. Join a Park Historian for an interpretive program on the weapons of the American Revolution and their use during the Battle of Trenton followed by a Musket Firing.

July 28 | Thunder Moon Walk

8 p.m.
Fee: $5 person/donation; reservations requested
Whitesbog Village 
(609) 893-4646
Listen to the night sounds of the Pines, learn about Whitesbog and experience the seasonal changes of the Pinelands. All walks are 3-5 miles in length, weather permitting and led by experienced leaders.

July 28, 29 | Bio Blitz

Call for time
FREE 
Whitesbog Village
(609) 893-4646
Whitesbog Village
Join local science experts from around the region to learn about all the natural plants, insects, animals in the Pinelands! July is a great time to look for insects, fish, frogs, turtles, moss, ferns, flowers, butterflies, moths, dragonflies and more! Moth expert, Bernie Knaupp will create a moth-friendly evening atmosphere for viewing some of the species that call Whitesbog home. Everyone is welcome. Come with us and discover the night time jewels of the Lepidopteran world and why they are a vital and enormous part of our ecosystem. Come early and explore the historic village or hike the blueberry fields and cranberry bogs. We will fire up the multiple lights at as many as 1-2 viewing areas after sunset. Bring the kids out for an unforgettable night time experience. You can bring a chair, flashlight and snack or visit our general store to purchase some refreshments or local handiwork.

July 29 | X Marks the Spot! (Map skills for kids)

1:30 to 3 p.m.
Fee: Park entrance fee
High Point State Park
(973) 875-1471
Through a series of games and activities (both indoors and out) kids will learn basic map reading and map-making skills. Meet at the Interpretive Center. Suitable for kids ages seven to eleven.

July 29 | Historian's Hand-Pick Tour:

A Servant's Life at Ringwood Manor
1:30 p.m.
Fee:  $10 per person; Advanced registration required by emailing: RingwoodManorTours@gmail.com 
Ringwood Manor, Ringwood State Park
(973) 962-2240
Join Ringwood Manor historian, Sue Shutte, throughout the year as she hand-picks exclusive tours with a special focus. Ever wonder what it was like for the servant and staff living and working at Ringwood Manor? This tour will give you a glimpse into their lives and daily routines. Please note: Participants should be prepared to climb three flights of stairs during this tour. Comfortable and supportive shoes are recommended. Advanced registration required. Tour limited to 20 people.

July 29 | Geocaching 101

1 to 2:30 p.m.
FREE
Stephens State Park, Pavilion
(908) 852-3790
Learn what is a geocache, how to find them, how to use your smartphone or GPS unit to track them, proper etiquette of geocaching.  Join us for a trial run in search of some geocaches in the area.  The walk will be on natural trails, protective footwear is recommended.

July 31 | Blueberry Jam

11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
FREE
Whitesbog Village
(609) 893-4646
www.whitesbog.org
Musicians of all ages are welcome to bring out their instruments and hop into the fun of an old-fashioned music jam! Meet us on the porch of the General Store, bring a chair, listen a while, sip on a drink from the store and enjoy the beauty of Whitesbog.

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July 4, 7 |  Video - Guardians of Barnegat Bay

10 a.m.
FREE
Double Trouble Village State Historic Site
(732) 341-4098
Double Trouble State Park was established in part to protect a sensitive watershed.  What can you do to help?  Watch this half hour video and become a Guardian of Barnegat Bay.  Video plays in Village Interpretive Center Display Room.  Limited seating.